A planned teachers' strike has forced some schools to close while others face significant disruption.
Headteachers have been at pains to point out they must consider the health and safety of pupils as they reach their decisions.
They have also told parents they hope the union's national dispute with the government can be resolved.
There are about 3,000 NUT members across Cumbria.
Schools will be affected in different ways depending on the numbers of teachers who are members of the union.
The Government has been urged to hold talks with NUT leaders in a bid to avert the planned strike.
NUT members voted by more than 9-1 in favour of industrial action following a ballot in a long-running dispute over pay and conditions.
An Education Department spokesman said it was "already in regular and constructive talks" with the NUT on pay and conditions and urged the union to call off the strike.
Schools across West Cumbria will also close or face disruption next Tuesday.
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